1
|
Yin Z, Kang J, Cheng X, Gao H, Huo S, Xu H. Investigating Müller glia reprogramming in mice: a retrospective of the last decade, and a look to the future. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:946-959. [PMID: 38989930 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Müller glia, as prominent glial cells within the retina, plays a significant role in maintaining retinal homeostasis in both healthy and diseased states. In lower vertebrates like zebrafish, these cells assume responsibility for spontaneous retinal regeneration, wherein endogenous Müller glia undergo proliferation, transform into Müller glia-derived progenitor cells, and subsequently regenerate the entire retina with restored functionality. Conversely, Müller glia in the mouse and human retina exhibit limited neural reprogramming. Müller glia reprogramming is thus a promising strategy for treating neurodegenerative ocular disorders. Müller glia reprogramming in mice has been accomplished with remarkable success, through various technologies. Advancements in molecular, genetic, epigenetic, morphological, and physiological evaluations have made it easier to document and investigate the Müller glia programming process in mice. Nevertheless, there remain issues that hinder improving reprogramming efficiency and maturity. Thus, understanding the reprogramming mechanism is crucial toward exploring factors that will improve Müller glia reprogramming efficiency, and for developing novel Müller glia reprogramming strategies. This review describes recent progress in relatively successful Müller glia reprogramming strategies. It also provides a basis for developing new Müller glia reprogramming strategies in mice, including epigenetic remodeling, metabolic modulation, immune regulation, chemical small-molecules regulation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and cell-cell fusion, to achieve Müller glia reprogramming in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Yin
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen Y, Holtzman DM. New insights into innate immunity in Alzheimer's disease: from APOE protective variants to therapies. Trends Immunol 2024:S1471-4906(24)00187-X. [PMID: 39278789 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2024.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Recent discoveries of rare variants of human APOE may shed light on novel therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we highlight the newly identified protective variant [APOE3 Christchurch (APOE3ch, R136S)] as an example. We summarize human AD and mouse amyloidosis and tauopathy studies from the past 5 years that have been associated with this R136S variant. We also propose a potential mechanism for how this point mutation might lead to protection against AD pathology, from the molecular level, to cells, to mouse models, and potentially, to humans. Lastly, we extend our discussion of the recent insights gained regarding different APOE variants to putative therapeutic approaches in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - David M Holtzman
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ji Y, McLean JL, Xu R. Emerging Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Human-Animal Brain Chimeras for Advancing Disease Modeling and Cell Therapy for Neurological Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:1315-1332. [PMID: 38466557 PMCID: PMC11365908 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01189-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) models provide unprecedented opportunities to study human neurological disorders by recapitulating human-specific disease mechanisms. In particular, hPSC-based human-animal brain chimeras enable the study of human cell pathophysiology in vivo. In chimeric brains, human neural and immune cells can maintain human-specific features, undergo maturation, and functionally integrate into host brains, allowing scientists to study how human cells impact neural circuits and animal behaviors. The emerging human-animal brain chimeras hold promise for modeling human brain cells and their interactions in health and disease, elucidating the disease mechanism from molecular and cellular to circuit and behavioral levels, and testing the efficacy of cell therapy interventions. Here, we discuss recent advances in the generation and applications of using human-animal chimeric brain models for the study of neurological disorders, including disease modeling and cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanru Ji
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Jenna Lillie McLean
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Ranjie Xu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kent GM, Atkins MH, Lung B, Nikitina A, Fernandes IM, Kwan JJ, Andrews TS, MacParland SA, Keller GM, Gage BK. Human liver sinusoidal endothelial cells support the development of functional human pluripotent stem cell-derived Kupffer cells. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114629. [PMID: 39146183 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In mice, the first liver-resident macrophages, known as Kupffer cells (KCs), are thought to derive from yolk sac (YS) hematopoietic progenitors that are specified prior to the emergence of the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC). To investigate human KC development, we recapitulated YS-like hematopoiesis from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) and transplanted derivative macrophage progenitors into NSG mice previously humanized with hPSC-liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). We demonstrate that hPSC-LSECs facilitate stable hPSC-YS-macrophage engraftment for at least 7 weeks. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of engrafted YS-macrophages revealed a homogeneous MARCO-expressing KC gene signature and low expression of monocyte-like macrophage genes. In contrast, human cord blood (CB)-derived macrophage progenitors generated grafts that contain multiple hematopoietic lineages in addition to KCs. Functional analyses showed that the engrafted KCs actively perform phagocytosis and erythrophagocytosis in vivo. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that it is possible to generate human KCs from hPSC-derived, YS-like progenitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Kent
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Michael H Atkins
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Bryan Lung
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6G2V4, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A5C1, Canada
| | - Adele Nikitina
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Ian M Fernandes
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Jamie J Kwan
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada
| | - Tallulah S Andrews
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6G2V4, Canada
| | - Sonya A MacParland
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada; Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada
| | - Gordon M Keller
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada.
| | - Blair K Gage
- Sprott Centre for Stem Cell Research, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa, ON K1H8L6, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chadarevian JP, Hasselmann J, Lahian A, Capocchi JK, Escobar A, Lim TE, Le L, Tu C, Nguyen J, Kiani Shabestari S, Carlen-Jones W, Gandhi S, Bu G, Hume DA, Pridans C, Wszolek ZK, Spitale RC, Davtyan H, Blurton-Jones M. Therapeutic potential of human microglia transplantation in a chimeric model of CSF1R-related leukoencephalopathy. Neuron 2024; 112:2686-2707.e8. [PMID: 38897209 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Microglia replacement strategies are increasingly being considered for the treatment of primary microgliopathies like adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP). However, available mouse models fail to recapitulate the diverse neuropathologies and reduced microglia numbers observed in patients. In this study, we generated a xenotolerant mouse model lacking the fms-intronic regulatory element (FIRE) enhancer within Csf1r, which develops nearly all the hallmark pathologies associated with ALSP. Remarkably, transplantation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived microglial (iMG) progenitors restores a homeostatic microglial signature and prevents the development of axonal spheroids, white matter abnormalities, reactive astrocytosis, and brain calcifications. Furthermore, transplantation of CRISPR-corrected ALSP-patient-derived iMG reverses pre-existing spheroids, astrogliosis, and calcification pathologies. Together with the accompanying study by Munro and colleagues, our results demonstrate the utility of FIRE mice to model ALSP and provide compelling evidence that iMG transplantation could offer a promising new therapeutic strategy for ALSP and perhaps other microglia-associated neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Paul Chadarevian
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Hasselmann
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Alina Lahian
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Joia K Capocchi
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Adrian Escobar
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Tau En Lim
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Le
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Christina Tu
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jasmine Nguyen
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sepideh Kiani Shabestari
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - William Carlen-Jones
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sunil Gandhi
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Guojun Bu
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - David A Hume
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Clare Pridans
- University of Edinburgh, University of Edinburgh Center for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Robert C Spitale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Hayk Davtyan
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Du S, Drieu A, Cheng Y, Storck SE, Rustenhoven J, Mamuladze T, Bhattarai B, Brioschi S, Nguyen K, Ou F, Cao J, Rodrigues PF, Smirnov I, DeNardo D, Ginhoux F, Cella M, Colonna M, Kipnis J. Brain-Engrafted Monocyte-derived Macrophages from Blood and Skull-Bone Marrow Exhibit Distinct Identities from Microglia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.08.606900. [PMID: 39211090 PMCID: PMC11361186 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.08.606900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Microglia are thought to originate exclusively from primitive macrophage progenitors in the yolk sac (YS) and to persist throughout life without much contribution from definitive hematopoiesis. Here, using lineage tracing, pharmacological manipulation, and RNA-sequencing, we elucidated the presence and characteristics of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) in the brain parenchyma at baseline and during microglia repopulation, and defined the core transcriptional signatures of brain-engrafted MDMs. Lineage tracing mouse models revealed that MDMs transiently express CD206 during brain engraftment as CD206 + microglia precursors in the YS. We found that brain-engrafted MDMs exhibit transcriptional and epigenetic characteristics akin to meningeal macrophages, likely due to environmental imprinting within the meningeal space. Utilizing parabiosis and skull transplantation, we demonstrated that monocytes from both peripheral blood and skull bone marrow can repopulate microglia-depleted brains. Our results reveal the heterogeneous origins and cellular dynamics of brain parenchymal macrophages at baseline and in models of microglia depletion.
Collapse
|
7
|
Colella P, Sayana R, Suarez-Nieto MV, Sarno J, Nyame K, Xiong J, Pimentel Vera LN, Arozqueta Basurto J, Corbo M, Limaye A, Davis KL, Abu-Remaileh M, Gomez-Ospina N. CNS-wide repopulation by hematopoietic-derived microglia-like cells corrects progranulin deficiency in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5654. [PMID: 38969669 PMCID: PMC11226701 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49908-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can deliver therapeutic proteins to the central nervous system (CNS) through transplant-derived microglia-like cells. However, current conditioning approaches result in low and slow engraftment of transplanted cells in the CNS. Here we optimized a brain conditioning regimen that leads to rapid, robust, and persistent microglia replacement without adverse effects on neurobehavior or hematopoiesis. This regimen combines busulfan myeloablation and six days of Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX3397. Single-cell analyses revealed unappreciated heterogeneity of microglia-like cells with most cells expressing genes characteristic of homeostatic microglia, brain-border-associated macrophages, and unique markers. Cytokine analysis in the CNS showed transient inductions of myeloproliferative and chemoattractant cytokines that help repopulate the microglia niche. Bone marrow transplant of progranulin-deficient mice conditioned with busulfan and PLX3397 restored progranulin in the brain and eyes and normalized brain lipofuscin storage, proteostasis, and lipid metabolism. This study advances our understanding of CNS repopulation by hematopoietic-derived cells and demonstrates its therapeutic potential for treating progranulin-dependent neurodegeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualina Colella
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Ruhi Sayana
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | - Jolanda Sarno
- Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplant, and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - Kwamina Nyame
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- The Institute for Chemistry, Engineering and Medicine for Human Health (Sarafan ChEM-H), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Jian Xiong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- The Institute for Chemistry, Engineering and Medicine for Human Health (Sarafan ChEM-H), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | | | - Marco Corbo
- MedGenome, Inc, 348 Hatch Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Anay Limaye
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- MedGenome, Inc, 348 Hatch Dr, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Kara L Davis
- Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplant, and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Monther Abu-Remaileh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- The Institute for Chemistry, Engineering and Medicine for Human Health (Sarafan ChEM-H), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Natalia Gomez-Ospina
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rosenzweig N, Kleemann KL, Rust T, Carpenter M, Grucci M, Aronchik M, Brouwer N, Valenbreder I, Cooper-Hohn J, Iyer M, Krishnan RK, Sivanathan KN, Brandão W, Yahya T, Durao A, Yin Z, Chadarevian JP, Properzi MJ, Nowarski R, Davtyan H, Weiner HL, Blurton-Jones M, Yang HS, Eggen BJL, Sperling RA, Butovsky O. Sex-dependent APOE4 neutrophil-microglia interactions drive cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease. Nat Med 2024:10.1038/s41591-024-03122-3. [PMID: 38961225 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03122-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
APOE4 is the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), with increased odds ratios in female carriers. Targeting amyloid plaques shows modest improvement in male non-APOE4 carriers. Leveraging single-cell transcriptomics across APOE variants in both sexes, multiplex flow cytometry and validation in two independent cohorts of APOE4 female carriers with AD, we identify a new subset of neutrophils interacting with microglia associated with cognitive impairment. This phenotype is defined by increased interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-1 coexpressed gene modules in blood neutrophils and in microglia of cognitively impaired female APOE ε4 carriers, showing increased infiltration to the AD brain. APOE4 female IL-17+ neutrophils upregulated the immunosuppressive cytokines IL-10 and TGFβ and immune checkpoints, including LAG3 and PD-1, associated with accelerated immune aging. Deletion of APOE4 in neutrophils reduced this immunosuppressive phenotype and restored the microglial response to neurodegeneration, limiting plaque pathology in AD mice. Mechanistically, IL-17F upregulated in APOE4 neutrophils interacts with microglial IL-17RA to suppress the induction of the neurodegenerative phenotype, and blocking this axis supported cognitive improvement in AD mice. These findings provide a translational basis to target IL-17F in APOE ε4 female carriers with cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neta Rosenzweig
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kilian L Kleemann
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Rust
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Madison Carpenter
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Madeline Grucci
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Aronchik
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nieske Brouwer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Isabel Valenbreder
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joya Cooper-Hohn
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Malvika Iyer
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rajesh K Krishnan
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kisha N Sivanathan
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wesley Brandão
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Taha Yahya
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ana Durao
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhuoran Yin
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jean Paul Chadarevian
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Properzi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roni Nowarski
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hayk Davtyan
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Howard L Weiner
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Hyun-Sik Yang
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bart J L Eggen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Reisa A Sperling
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oleg Butovsky
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Amelimojarad M, Amelimojarad M, Cui X. The emerging role of brain neuroinflammatory responses in Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1391517. [PMID: 39021707 PMCID: PMC11253199 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1391517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
As the most common cause of dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by neurodegeneration and synaptic loss with an increasing prevalence in the elderly. Increased inflammatory responses triggers brain cells to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and accelerates the Aβ accumulation, tau protein hyper-phosphorylation leading to neurodegeneration. Therefore, in this paper, we discuss the current understanding of how inflammation affects brain activity to induce AD pathology, the inflammatory biomarkers and possible therapies that combat inflammation for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xiaonan Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
AmeliMojarad M, AmeliMojarad M. The neuroinflammatory role of microglia in Alzheimer's disease and their associated therapeutic targets. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14856. [PMID: 39031970 PMCID: PMC11259573 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD), the main cause of dementia, is characterized by synaptic loss and neurodegeneration. Amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain are considered to be the initiating factors of AD. However, this hypothesis falls short of explaining many aspects of AD pathogenesis. Recently, there has been mounting evidence that neuroinflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of AD and causes neurodegeneration by over-activating microglia and releasing inflammatory mediators. METHODS PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and MEDLINE were used for searching and summarizing all the recent publications related to inflammation and its association with Alzheimer's disease. RESULTS Our review shows how inflammatory dysregulation influences AD pathology as well as the roles of microglia in neuroinflammation, the possible microglia-associated therapeutic targets, top neuroinflammatory biomarkers, and anti-inflammatory drugs that combat inflammation. CONCLUSION In conclusion, microglial inflammatory reactions are important factors in AD pathogenesis and need to be discussed in more detail for promising therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melika AmeliMojarad
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Industrial and Environmental BiotechnologyNational Institute of Genetic Engineering and BiotechnologyTehranIran
| | - Mandana AmeliMojarad
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Industrial and Environmental BiotechnologyNational Institute of Genetic Engineering and BiotechnologyTehranIran
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sato RY, Zhang Y, Kotake KT, Onishi H, Ito S, Norimoto H, Zhou Z. CSF1R inhibitor PLX3397 depletes microglia in Mongolian gerbil Meriones unguiculatus, but not in syrian hamster Mesocricetus auratus. J Pharmacol Sci 2024; 155:29-34. [PMID: 38677783 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia are the residential immune cells in the central nervous system. Their roles as innate immune cells and regulators of synaptic remodeling are critical to the development and the maintenance of the brain. Numerous studies have depleted microglia to elucidate their involvement in healthy and pathological conditions. PLX3397, a blocker of colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R), is widely used to deplete mouse microglia due to its non-invasiveness and convenience. Recently, other small rodents, including Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) and Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus), have been recognized as valuable animal models for studying brain functions and diseases. However, whether microglia depletion via PLX3397 is feasible in these species remains unclear. Here, we administered PLX3397 orally via food pellets to hamsters and gerbils. PLX3397 successfully depleted gerbil microglia but had no effect on microglial density in hamsters. Comparative analysis of the CSF1R amino acid sequence in different species hints that amino acid substitutions in the juxtamembrane domain may potentially contribute to the inefficacy of PLX3397 in hamsters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ren Y Sato
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Koki T Kotake
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Hiraku Onishi
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Shiho Ito
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Norimoto
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan.
| | - Zhiwen Zhou
- Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, North 15, West 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fan J, Zhu J, Zhu H, Xu H. Potential therapeutic targets in myeloid cell therapy for overcoming chemoresistance and immune suppression in gastrointestinal tumors. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 198:104362. [PMID: 38614267 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment (TME), myeloid cells play a pivotal role. Myeloid-derived immunosuppressive cells, including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), are central components in shaping the immunosuppressive milieu of the tumor. Within the TME, a majority of TAMs assume an M2 phenotype, characterized by their pro-tumoral activity. These cells promote tumor cell growth, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. In contrast, M1 macrophages, under appropriate activation conditions, exhibit cytotoxic capabilities against cancer cells. However, an excessive M1 response may lead to pro-tumoral inflammation. As a result, myeloid cells have emerged as crucial targets in cancer therapy. This review concentrates on gastrointestinal tumors, detailing methods for targeting macrophages to enhance tumor radiotherapy and immunotherapy sensitivity. We specifically delve into monocytes and tumor-associated macrophages' various functions, establishing an immunosuppressive microenvironment, promoting tumorigenic inflammation, and fostering neovascularization and stromal remodeling. Additionally, we examine combination therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Jianshu Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - He Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Hong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jin M, Ma Z, Dang R, Zhang H, Kim R, Xue H, Pascual J, Finkbeiner S, Head E, Liu Y, Jiang P. A Trisomy 21-linked Hematopoietic Gene Variant in Microglia Confers Resilience in Human iPSC Models of Alzheimer's Disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.12.584646. [PMID: 38559257 PMCID: PMC10979994 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.12.584646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
While challenging, identifying individuals displaying resilience to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and understanding the underlying mechanism holds great promise for the development of new therapeutic interventions to effectively treat AD. Down syndrome (DS), or trisomy 21, is the most common genetic cause of AD. Interestingly, some people with DS, despite developing AD neuropathology, show resilience to cognitive decline. Furthermore, DS individuals are at an increased risk of myeloid leukemia due to somatic mutations in hematopoietic cells. Recent studies indicate that somatic mutations in hematopoietic cells may lead to resilience to neurodegeneration. Microglia, derived from hematopoietic lineages, play a central role in AD etiology. We therefore hypothesize that microglia carrying the somatic mutations associated with DS myeloid leukemia may impart resilience to AD. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, we introduce a trisomy 21-linked hotspot CSF2RB A455D mutation into human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) lines derived from both DS and healthy individuals. Employing hPSC-based in vitro microglia culture and in vivo human microglia chimeric mouse brain models, we show that in response to pathological tau, the CSF2RB A455D mutation suppresses microglial type-1 interferon signaling, independent of trisomy 21 genetic background. This mutation reduces neuroinflammation and enhances phagocytic and autophagic functions, thereby ameliorating senescent and dystrophic phenotypes in human microglia. Moreover, the CSF2RB A455D mutation promotes the development of a unique microglia subcluster with tissue repair properties. Importantly, human microglia carrying CSF2RB A455D provide protection to neuronal function, such as neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity in chimeric mouse brains where human microglia largely repopulate the hippocampus. When co-transplanted into the same mouse brains, human microglia with CSF2RB A455D mutation phagocytize and replace human microglia carrying the wildtype CSF2RB gene following pathological tau treatment. Our findings suggest that hPSC-derived CSF2RB A455D microglia could be employed to develop effective microglial replacement therapy for AD and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases, even without the need to deplete endogenous diseased microglia prior to cell transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Jin
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ziyuan Ma
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Rui Dang
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Haiwei Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Rachael Kim
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Haipeng Xue
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987, USA
| | - Jesse Pascual
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Steven Finkbeiner
- Ceter for Systems and Therapeutics and the Taube/Koret Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Gladstone Institutes; University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Departments of Neurology and Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987, USA
| | - Peng Jiang
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University New Brunswick, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang W, Li J, Cui S, Li J, Ye X, Wang Z, Zhang T, Jiang X, Kong Y, Chen X, Chen YQ, Zhu S. Microglial Ffar4 deficiency promotes cognitive impairment in the context of metabolic syndrome. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj7813. [PMID: 38306420 PMCID: PMC10836723 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj7813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is closely associated with an increased risk of dementia and cognitive impairment, and a complex interaction of genetic and environmental dietary factors may be implicated. Free fatty acid receptor 4 (Ffar4) may bridge the genetic and dietary aspects of MetS development. However, the role of Ffar4 in MetS-related cognitive dysfunction is unclear. In this study, we found that Ffar4 expression is down-regulated in MetS mice and MetS patients with cognitive impairment. Conventional and microglial conditional knockout of Ffar4 exacerbated high-fat diet (HFD)-induced cognitive dysfunction and anxiety, whereas microglial Ffar4 overexpression improved HFD-induced cognitive dysfunction and anxiety. Mechanistically, we found that microglial Ffar4 regulated microglial activation through type I interferon signaling. Microglial depletion and NF-κB inhibition partially reversed cognitive dysfunction and anxiety in microglia-specific Ffar4 knockout MetS mice. Together, these findings uncover a previously unappreciated role of Ffar4 in negatively regulating the NF-κB-IFN-β signaling and provide an attractive therapeutic target for delaying MetS-associated cognitive decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Jinyou Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Siyuan Cui
- Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi 214002, China
| | - Jiayu Li
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Xianlong Ye
- Ganjiang Chinese Medicine Innovation Center, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Xuan Jiang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Yulin Kong
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi 214002, China
| | - Yong Q. Chen
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Shenglong Zhu
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi 214002, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Balak CD, Han CZ, Glass CK. Deciphering microglia phenotypes in health and disease. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 84:102146. [PMID: 38171044 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2023.102146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Microglia are the major immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that perform numerous adaptive functions required for normal CNS development and homeostasis but are also linked to neurodegenerative and behavioral diseases. Microglia development and function are strongly influenced by brain environmental signals that are integrated at the level of transcriptional enhancers to drive specific programs of gene expression. Here, we describe a conceptual framework for how lineage-determining and signal-dependent transcription factors interact to select and regulate the ensembles of enhancers that determine microglia development and function. We then highlight recent findings that advance these concepts and conclude with a consideration of open questions that represent some of the major hurdles to be addressed in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Balak
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA; Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | - Claudia Z Han
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | - Christopher K Glass
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Granzotto A, McQuade A, Chadarevian JP, Davtyan H, Sensi SL, Parker I, Blurton-Jones M, Smith I. ER and SOCE Ca 2+ signals are not required for directed cell migration in human microglia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.18.576126. [PMID: 38293075 PMCID: PMC10827168 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.18.576126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) is constantly surveilled by microglia, highly motile and dynamic cells deputed to act as the first line of immune defense in the brain and spinal cord. Alterations in the homeostasis of the CNS are detected by microglia that respond by migrating toward the affected area. Understanding the mechanisms controlling directed cell migration of microglia is crucial to dissect their responses to neuroinflammation and injury. We used a combination of pharmacological and genetic approaches to explore the involvement of calcium (Ca2+) signaling in the directed migration of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived microglia challenged with a purinergic stimulus. This approach mimics cues originating from injury of the CNS. Unexpectedly, simultaneous imaging of microglia migration and intracellular Ca2+ changes revealed that this phenomenon does not require Ca2+ signals generated from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) pathways. Instead, we find evidence that human microglial chemotaxis to purinergic signals is mediated by cyclic AMP in a Ca2+-independent manner. These results challenge prevailing notions, with important implications in neurological conditions characterized by perturbation in Ca2+ homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Granzotto
- UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, United States
- Center for Advanced Sciences and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G d’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Amanda McQuade
- UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, United States
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Jean Paul Chadarevian
- UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, United States
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
| | - Hayk Davtyan
- UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, United States
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
| | - Stefano L. Sensi
- Center for Advanced Sciences and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G d’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies (ITAB), “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Ian Parker
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, United States
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
| | - Ian Smith
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Luo EY, Sugimura RR. Taming microglia: the promise of engineered microglia in treating neurological diseases. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:19. [PMID: 38212785 PMCID: PMC10785527 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03015-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the CNS-resident immune cells, are implicated in many neurological diseases. Nearly one in six of the world's population suffers from neurological disorders, encompassing neurodegenerative and neuroautoimmune diseases, most with dysregulated neuroinflammation involved. Activated microglia become phagocytotic and secret various immune molecules, which are mediators of the brain immune microenvironment. Given their ability to penetrate through the blood-brain barrier in the neuroinflammatory context and their close interaction with neurons and other glial cells, microglia are potential therapeutic delivery vehicles and modulators of neuronal activity. Re-engineering microglia to treat neurological diseases is, thus, increasingly gaining attention. By altering gene expression, re-programmed microglia can be utilized to deliver therapeutics to targeted sites and control neuroinflammation in various neuroinflammatory diseases. This review addresses the current development in microglial engineering, including genetic targeting and therapeutic modulation. Furthermore, we discuss limitations to the genetic engineering techniques and models used to test the functionality of re-engineered microglia, including cell culture and animal models. Finally, we will discuss future directions for the application of engineered microglia in treating neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Echo Yongqi Luo
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Rio Ryohichi Sugimura
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Weyer MP, Strehle J, Schäfer MKE, Tegeder I. Repurposing of pexidartinib for microglia depletion and renewal. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 253:108565. [PMID: 38052308 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Pexidartinib (PLX3397) is a small molecule receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor of colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) with moderate selectivity over other members of the platelet derived growth factor receptor family. It is approved for treatment of tenosynovial giant cell tumors (TGCT). CSF1R is highly expressed by microglia, which are macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS) that defend the CNS against injury and pathogens and contribute to synapse development and plasticity. Challenged by pathogens, apoptotic cells, debris, or inflammatory molecules they adopt a responsive state to propagate the inflammation and eventually return to a homeostatic state. The phenotypic switch may fail, and disease-associated microglia contribute to the pathophysiology in neurodegenerative or neuropsychiatric diseases or long-lasting detrimental brain inflammation after brain, spinal cord or nerve injury or ischemia/hemorrhage. Microglia also contribute to the growth permissive tumor microenvironment of glioblastoma (GBM). In rodents, continuous treatment for 1-2 weeks via pexidartinib food pellets leads to a depletion of microglia and subsequent repopulation from the remaining fraction, which is aided by peripheral monocytes that search empty niches for engraftment. The putative therapeutic benefit of such microglia depletion or forced renewal has been assessed in almost any rodent model of CNS disease or injury or GBM with heterogeneous outcomes, but a tendency of partial beneficial effects. So far, microglia monitoring e.g. via positron emission imaging is not standard of care for patients receiving Pexidartinib (e.g. for TGCT), so that the depletion and repopulation efficiency in humans is still largely unknown. Considering the virtuous functions of microglia, continuous depletion is likely no therapeutic option but short-lasting transient partial depletion to stimulate microglia renewal or replace microglia in genetic disease in combination with e.g. stem cell transplantation or as part of a multimodal concept in treatment of glioblastoma appears feasible. The present review provides an overview of the preclinical evidence pro and contra microglia depletion as a therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc-Philipp Weyer
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Faculty of Medicine, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jenny Strehle
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael K E Schäfer
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany
| | - Irmgard Tegeder
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Faculty of Medicine, Frankfurt, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Catalano F, Vlaar EC, Katsavelis D, Dammou Z, Huizer TF, van den Bosch JC, Hoogeveen-Westerveld M, van den Hout HJ, Oussoren E, Ruijter GJ, Schaaf G, Pike-Overzet K, Staal FJ, van der Ploeg AT, Pijnappel WP. Tagged IDS causes efficient and engraftment-independent prevention of brain pathology during lentiviral gene therapy for Mucopolysaccharidosis type II. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101149. [PMID: 38033460 PMCID: PMC10684800 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (OMIM 309900) is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by iduronate 2-sulfatase (IDS) deficiency and accumulation of glycosaminoglycans, leading to progressive neurodegeneration. As intravenously infused enzyme replacement therapy cannot cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), it fails to treat brain pathology, highlighting the unmet medical need to develop alternative therapies. Here, we test modified versions of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC)-mediated lentiviral gene therapy (LVGT) using IDS tagging in combination with the ubiquitous MND promoter to optimize efficacy in brain and to investigate its mechanism of action. We find that IDS tagging with IGF2 or ApoE2, but not RAP12x2, improves correction of brain heparan sulfate and neuroinflammation at clinically relevant vector copy numbers. HSPC-derived cells engrafted in brain show efficiencies highest in perivascular areas, lower in choroid plexus and meninges, and lowest in parenchyma. Importantly, the efficacy of correction was independent of the number of brain-engrafted cells. These results indicate that tagged versions of IDS can outperform untagged IDS in HSPC-LVGT for the correction of brain pathology in MPS II, and they imply both cell-mediated and tag-mediated correction mechanisms, including passage across the BBB and increased uptake, highlighting their potential for clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Catalano
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Eva C. Vlaar
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Drosos Katsavelis
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Zina Dammou
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Tessa F. Huizer
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen C. van den Bosch
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Marianne Hoogeveen-Westerveld
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Hannerieke J.M.P. van den Hout
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Esmeralda Oussoren
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - George J.G. Ruijter
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Gerben Schaaf
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - Karin Pike-Overzet
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J.T. Staal
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333ZA, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Ans T. van der Ploeg
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| | - W.W.M. Pim Pijnappel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GE, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chadarevian JP, Davtyan H, Lombroso SI, Bennett FC, Blurton-Jones M. CRISPR generation of CSF1R-G795A human microglia for robust microglia replacement in a chimeric mouse model. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102490. [PMID: 37516973 PMCID: PMC10407259 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric mouse models have recently been developed to study human microglia in vivo. However, widespread engraftment of donor microglia within the adult brain has been challenging. Here, we present a protocol to introduce the G795A point mutation using CRISPR-Cas9 into the CSF1R locus of human pluripotent stem cells. We also describe an optimized microglial differentiation technique for transplantation into newborn or adult recipients. We then detail pharmacological paradigms to achieve widespread and near-complete engraftment of human microglia. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Chadarevian et al. (2023).1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Paul Chadarevian
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Hayk Davtyan
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Sonia I Lombroso
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - F Chris Bennett
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mass E, Nimmerjahn F, Kierdorf K, Schlitzer A. Tissue-specific macrophages: how they develop and choreograph tissue biology. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:563-579. [PMID: 36922638 PMCID: PMC10017071 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-023-00848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 114.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are innate immune cells that form a 3D network in all our tissues, where they phagocytose dying cells and cell debris, immune complexes, bacteria and other waste products. Simultaneously, they produce growth factors and signalling molecules - such activities not only promote host protection in response to invading microorganisms but are also crucial for organ development and homeostasis. There is mounting evidence of macrophages orchestrating fundamental physiological processes, such as blood vessel formation, adipogenesis, metabolism and central and peripheral neuronal function. In parallel, novel methodologies have led to the characterization of tissue-specific macrophages, with distinct subpopulations of these cells showing different developmental trajectories, transcriptional programmes and life cycles. Here, we summarize our growing knowledge of macrophage diversity and how macrophage subsets orchestrate tissue development and function. We further interrelate macrophage ontogeny with their core functions across tissues, that is, the signalling events within the macrophage niche that may control organ functionality during development, homeostasis and ageing. Finally, we highlight the open questions that will need to be addressed by future studies to better understand the tissue-specific functions of distinct macrophage subsets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Mass
- Developmental Biology of the Immune System, Life and Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Falk Nimmerjahn
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Katrin Kierdorf
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Schlitzer
- Quantitative Systems Biology, Life and Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Watson LA, Meharena HS. From neurodevelopment to neurodegeneration: utilizing human stem cell models to gain insight into Down syndrome. Front Genet 2023; 14:1198129. [PMID: 37323671 PMCID: PMC10267712 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1198129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS), caused by triplication of chromosome 21, is the most frequent aneuploidy observed in the human population and represents the most common genetic form of intellectual disability and early-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD). Individuals with DS exhibit a wide spectrum of clinical presentation, with a number of organs implicated including the neurological, immune, musculoskeletal, cardiac, and gastrointestinal systems. Decades of DS research have illuminated our understanding of the disorder, however many of the features that limit quality of life and independence of individuals with DS, including intellectual disability and early-onset dementia, remain poorly understood. This lack of knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms leading to neurological features of DS has caused significant roadblocks in developing effective therapeutic strategies to improve quality of life for individuals with DS. Recent technological advances in human stem cell culture methods, genome editing approaches, and single-cell transcriptomics have provided paradigm-shifting insights into complex neurological diseases such as DS. Here, we review novel neurological disease modeling approaches, how they have been used to study DS, and what questions might be addressed in the future using these innovative tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L. Ashley Watson
- Developmental and Cognitive Genomics Research Laboratory, Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Neurobiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Hiruy S. Meharena
- Developmental and Cognitive Genomics Research Laboratory, Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Neurobiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Temple S. Advancing cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:512-529. [PMID: 37084729 PMCID: PMC10201979 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based therapies are being developed for various neurodegenerative diseases that affect the central nervous system (CNS). Concomitantly, the roles of individual cell types in neurodegenerative pathology are being uncovered by genetic and single-cell studies. With a greater understanding of cellular contributions to health and disease and with the arrival of promising approaches to modulate them, effective therapeutic cell products are now emerging. This review examines how the ability to generate diverse CNS cell types from stem cells, along with a deeper understanding of cell-type-specific functions and pathology, is advancing preclinical development of cell products for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Temple
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Walsh AE, Lukens JR. Engineering mighty microglia. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20222070. [PMID: 36648421 PMCID: PMC9856716 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20222070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Defective microglial responses underlie many neurological disorders. Recent efforts to swap out dysfunctional microglia with optimized replacements have been derailed by safety issues and transplantation inefficiencies. In this issue, Chadarevian et al. (2023. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20220857) designed a novel strategy that enables improved engraftment of human microglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adeline E. Walsh
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Biotechnology Training Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - John R. Lukens
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Biotechnology Training Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|